A FOOTHOLD into a career in the health world is being offered by ambulance chiefs in North Yorkshire.

Apprentices are being sought by Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) to work within its non-emergency Patient Transport Service, which provides travel for patients needing treatment at hospitals and health centres.

The organisation is looking to recruit a group of 50 trainee road operations rookies, who will be tasked with driving those who require treatment but whose medical condition means they cannot use public transport to their destination in saloon cars.

The apprenticeship scheme will be run by YAS in partnership with YH Training Services Ltd, which will draw up a comprehensive training programme including NVQ Level 2 in customer services, a technical certificate and key skills such as communication and numeracy.

Following their initial training period, the apprentices will work at ambulance stations around Yorkshire to gain first-hand experience of what the role will entail as they work towards their qualifications.

Once they have successfully completed the scheme, there will be a chance to secure a permanent job with the service.

“This is an ideal step on to the career ladder within the ambulance service,” said Chris Sharp, the service’s learning and development manager.

“The scheme not only provides the opportunity for a fulfilling vacation, but a rewarding career with great prospects and a chance to progress further.

“We are committed to the training and development of our workforce and the apprenticeship scheme is another important step in ensuring a future generation of ambulance staff.”

Yorkshire Ambulance Service currently employs around 3,900 people, 80 per cent of which have frontline roles, and has 61 ambulance stations across Yorkshire.

More information about how to get involved with the apprenticeship scheme is available by phoning YH Training Services Ltd on 0800 542 2848 or emailing enquiries@yh-group.co.uk